Daley Blind has come to the defence of former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, claiming that the Dutchman "did not deserve" so much criticism during his two seasons in the Old Trafford hotseat.

Van Gaal was sacked by the club at the end of last season, having only managed to guide the Red Devils to a disappointing fifth-place finish in the Premier League.

The 64-year-old was finally shown the door after lengthy speculation over his future and rumours that his playing squad were unhappy with his training methods and style of play.

"Van Gaal did not deserve all the criticism. I rated him highly but football is tough at times," Blind, who joined United under Van Gaal in 2014, told The Sun.

"He knew it wasn't going to be easy to restore success to United.

"I don't know whether Manchester United will be Van Gaal's final act. But he worked so hard at the club until his last day and he could definitely take on a new project."

Blind is among the players thought to be in line for an exit this transfer window as new United manager Jose Mourinho reshapes his squad.